Built on the BlueCrest’s established Epic platform, a multi-format machine for transactional and direct mail applications, the Epic Direct Mail handles BlueCrest’s widest range of direct mail applications at faster speeds. It was released in October.

The inserter can process a range of materials at speeds of up to 24,000cph for tri-fold sheets and can be configured with BlueCrest’s largest range of feeding technology: rotary, friction, batch and booklet.

It can handle envelopes from 178x99mm to 353x254mm and format changes take less than two minutes, thanks to its automated changeover feature.

Its job recall function simplifies moving between jobs, while its capacity for real-time, end-to-end tracking means users can easily account for all the pieces involved in a job. The machine features real-time paper path corrections which reduces wastage.

The read- and print-ready line’s modular design also means additional features can be retrofitted.

BlueCrest director of product management insertion Wilhelm Kanzler said: “The Epic Direct Mail naturally expands on the vision we always had.

“Originally, the Epic was designed to enter the Direct Mail market, knowing we would have to develop features that are not typical in the transactional market, such as new feeders.

“We had to make sure we got the foundation correct and we wanted to deploy several systems in the field to train our service teams how to effectively support the equipment.

“With this release, we now have a solution that meets the demands of both the transactional and direct mail worlds – two worlds that are increasingly merging.”

BlueCrest, formerly the document messaging technologies division of Pitney Bowes, offers a range of printers, inserters, sorters, parcel machines, and software to an international customer base. The company has 1,500 employees worldwide.